Adding Soil For Xeriscapes

When xeriscaping a lawn, landscapers and homeowners need to be aware of the needs of the plant life used. Many areas designed with xeriscaping will benefit from composting. Compost materials help the soil to retain water. However, some plants commonly used in xeriscaping actually benefit more from gravel-based soils containing fewer nutrients.
In the Denver area, most native plants will benefit from composting. Although minimal composting is required, most plants will thrive with one to two inches of compost material spread over the area. After composting, the clay-based local soil up to six inches deep, landscapers can effectively plant low-maintenance native flora.
Homeowners who have large patches of land in full sunlight might prefer to landscape using cacti instead of native flora. This type of vegetation provides a viable alternative for those wishing to use xeriscaping techniques, but soil preparation will be considerably different. Sandy soil is best, and a cactus garden requires only about 10 percent organic material. The average rainfall in the Denver area should provide about the right amount of moisture to cacti grown outdoors.
Xeriscaping in Denver can be done using a wide variety of plant life, and those choosing this earth-friendly technique can select from several different looks to find what most appeals to them.